News Releases

Media Bulletin - Manitoba

STANDING HEARING FOR INQUEST INTO DEATH OF LEWIS SITAR

A standing hearing will take place to determine who can participate in the upcoming inquest into the death of Lewis Sitar, 50, of Winnipeg.

On Feb. 20, 2017, correctional officers at Stony Mountain Institution found Sitar unresponsive in his cell. They began providing first aid and requested emergency medical services. Paramedics transported him to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg and he died on March 3, 2017, after life support was withdrawn. It was later determined he died of blunt force trauma caused by an assault. Two men were convicted of manslaughter related to his death.

Under The Fatality Inquiries Act, an inquest has been called by the chief medical examiner. Inquests explore the circumstances and events leading to deaths for the purpose of finding out what, if anything, might be done to prevent similar deaths in the future.

Before the inquest begins, the judge will decide who can participate in the process and question witnesses. Individuals and groups may make an application to be granted standing and participate in the inquest. Those interested in applying for standing should contact Craig Savage, inquest counsel, at 204-299-6180 or craig.savage2@gov.mb.ca by March 1.

The standing hearing will be held on Thursday, March 14 at 10 a.m. in courtroom 408 at the Manitoba Law Courts Complex, 408 York Ave., Winnipeg.

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For more information:

Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.